Gov. Alia appeals to FG as Benue death toll rises to 56

DDM News

The death toll from the recent spate of deadly attacks in Benue State has risen to 56.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM) reports, Governor Hyacinth Alia has called on the Federal Government for urgent assistance to stop the ongoing bloodshed.

He made the appeal during a visit to Ukum and Logo local government areas, where the latest attacks occurred.

The governor engaged with local leaders and survivors, urging them to remain calm and avoid resorting to self-help.

He acknowledged the rising frustration among residents but warned against retaliation, which could escalate the crisis.

Governor Alia called on security agencies to intensify their presence and operations in the troubled areas.

Relief materials and emergency services have been dispatched to assist affected communities.

Security has been reinforced across the Sankera axis to boost confidence and protect vulnerable communities.

Witnesses say the attackers were heavily armed and stormed villages in coordinated assaults, killing residents and burning homes.

Survivors described fleeing for their lives at night, with many still missing and unaccounted for.

The affected areas are now filled with displaced persons who have lost everything and are seeking shelter.

Benue State has long been a hotspot in the deadly conflict between farmers and herders.

The state’s anti-open grazing law, enacted in 2017, has been a flashpoint in the ongoing crisis.

Though the law aimed to reduce clashes, it has instead triggered violent reprisals from armed herdsmen.

Thousands have died over the years, while others live in perpetual fear and displacement.

Local communities accuse the Federal Government of turning a blind eye to their suffering.

Despite repeated appeals, decisive federal action has remained largely absent.

Benue leaders, past and present, have consistently cried out for help, to no avail.

Many residents believe their lives are considered less valuable by those in power.

The most recent attacks in Ukum and Logo LGAs underscore the unchecked violence plaguing rural communities.

The assailants continue to move freely, often attacking in broad daylight without any resistance.

This impunity has emboldened them and left citizens with no faith in the state’s protection.

Neighbouring Plateau State is also bleeding, with over 100 killed in similar attacks in Bokkos and Bassa LGAs.

Security experts say the entire North Central region is on the brink of collapse due to worsening insecurity.

They warn that unless the root causes, land conflict, weak security, and political neglect are addressed, peace will remain elusive.

President Bola Tinubu’s administration has been accused of silence and inaction on the killings.

Critics argue that if these massacres occurred in oil-rich or politically influential states, response would be swift.

Benue communities, mostly agrarian and poor, are left to mourn in isolation and despair.

Some believe the silence from federal quarters is deliberate, a form of ethnic or political punishment.

This perception fuels mistrust and resentment towards Abuja and worsens national unity.

The Federal Government’s promise to protect lives and property rings hollow in these communities.

People now rely on God, luck, and local vigilantes for protection.

This is not just a security crisis; it is a moral and political failure.

Benue bleeds, and Nigeria watches silently.

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